Green Rocks

2013's color of choice brings vibrancy to your home and wardrobe.

From the runway to room sets, expect to go green this year in a big way. Emerald green, to be precise—the color of the year for 2013. As it makes a welcome return to the spotlight after a couple of decades as fashion’s wallflower, this rich, deeply elegant color couldn’t be more different from the bold Tangerine Tango of 2012.

As the traditional 55th wedding anniversary gift, the birthstone of May-born babies and a long-believed representation of love and new life, emeralds were worn as far back as ancient times as a talisman to bring health and good fortune to the wearer. Signifying regeneration, emerald is perfect for spring, with many designers showcasing the hue in both women’s and menswear. On the beauty counters, makeup collections are featuring emerald eyeshadows and eyeliners—which are surprisingly wearable—to enhance and complement many different eye colors.

In interiors, emerald appears in kitchen appliances, bedding, pillows and towels, an ideal way to introduce the color as an accent, to enliven and visually refresh your home for spring.

Start with the Jacket

Inspired by the vivid hues surrounding his Jamaican holiday retreat, Ralph Lauren always ensures that color plays an important part in his spring collections, and this season they couldn’t be brighter or more energetic. This mouthwateringly beautiful jacket in butter-soft lamb suede can be teamed with a T-shirt and fl owing silk floral print pants for a bold, colorful statement. Or, for a simpler look, pair it with white or neutral pants and a fitted T-shirt.

If you like your greens but prefer them in smaller portions, this vibrant print by Luisa Cerano is like a bouquet of spring flowers. With such a dazzling palette, keep the silhouette clean and unfussy and let the print do the work. Punctuate a simple dress with a lime green belt, or choose the same print in a breezy, light shirt and pair it with a simple pant or skirt, adding a statement bag to finish the look.

Dress and scarf by Luisa Cerano and Suzi Roher belt, both from Wildflower, The Village on Venetian Bay, Naples.

What a Gem

So, what about the color of emeralds themselves? Stones from Colombia usually have a yellow-green tone, whereas those from Africa tend to have a blue-green hue. When asked what is considered the best color, John Phelps of Wm. Phelps Custom Jeweler provided the perfect response: “The best color is the one you like the best!” This stunning ring comprises a Colombian emerald weighing 2.75 carats, set in white gold and surrounded by diamonds. No other accessories required.

Emerald and diamond ring by Wm. Phelps Custom Jeweler, The Village on Venetian Bay, Naples.